MODUL ATOR
FORT MYERS AMATEUR RADIO CLUB
FOUNDED 1957 www.FMARC.net
MARCH 2021
The Official Voice of FMARC Inc
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Steve Clayton - K4SJC
Greetings to all!
As of this writing, the club has over 140 active members! Let’s keep the dues coming in! Paid members now have exclusive access to the “members only” side of our website. It is important that your info is accurate. Please log in and verify your info! If you cannot log in, you may contact me or Tom Muye and we will be happy to help. Please plan to participate in the Buckingham Special Event at Buckingham Field in Lehigh Acres, March 23, 24, and 25, 2021. Brian Darley KM4YHZ, is chairing this event. Please contact him [email protected] verify your participation. As of the 2/9/2021 Board meeting, we now have a new committee. The Safety Committee is led by Robert Ficarelli KM4OWA, as Safety Director. Robert’s email [email protected]
Please reach out to him with comments and concerns.
Safety committee deputies are: Jeff Kennedy NK4AA, Steve Smith W9GPI, and Robert Griffin KJ4WPV. These are the “go to” guys for safety concerns at any and all club functions. They are also responsible for maintaining the first aid kit as well as the AED unit. Thanks for stepping up!
That’s all from here! Stay safe, stay active, and stay in touch! 73
Steve
The regular general monthly
meeting of FMARC is scheduled
for Tuesday February 23rd at
7:00PM. It will take place both
on Zoom and in person. Watch
your email for details.
February FMARC Meeting
1 2 3 5-7 8 9 11 15-23 Contents President's Message Testing Results SWFTN Results Winter Field Day Mayfield Departs New Club QSL Cards Newbie Tools
License Testing
Results of January 28 Overflow Exam Session
James Stanley KO4LBH Upgrade to General Roxanne Taylor KO4LQB New Technician TimPorak KO4LPZ New Technician Trent Westerlund Ehlert KY4DY New Amateur Extra Michael Taylor
KO4LQA New Technician
Also successfully testing at the session was Lyle Varney KO4LQC who received a new Technician ticket.
License Testing
Results of February 11 Regular Exam Session
Cecil Rice KO4MHA New Technician David Binkley KO4MHB New Technician Victor Young KO4KYU Upgrade to General
Also successfully testing at the session was Christopher Rasmussen W2UMC who received an upgrade to General.
This month we revisit listing traffic on the net. “Listing traffic” is the process of letting net control you have traffic for the net, and what that traffic is.
The first step is easy: when net control asks for stations with traffic, simply give your callsign and say “with traffic”. Net control will acknowledge stations holding traffic, and what you say and do next is what we address below.
There are two types of traffic that come to our net: outbound and local. Outbound is anything that is outside of the Southwest Florida Traffic Net’s geographic area. Our “official” boundary for local traffic is Port Charlotte & Arcadia to the north, Clewiston to the east, and Marco Island/Everglades City to the south. Anything within that general boundary is SWFTN territory, and that traffic should be handled as local on our net.
So now that net control has acknowledged you have traffic, you need to convey what you have. If you have outbound traffic, it is simple: how many, and “outbound” (Ex.: “W2PAX, I have 1 outbound.”) There’s no reason to say anything else, since outbound traffic is only handled one way: via the outbound liaison.
Local traffic takes slightly more description. Since we will often need a local volunteer to pick that traffic up, it is important to say where the traffic is going within our area. Also, if it is going to another amateur
operator, the callsign should be listed as well. An example of traffic for a non-amateur should be listed as: “W2PAX, I have 1 Lehigh Acres.” An example for traffic for another amateur station should be listed as: “W2PAX, I have 1 Bonita Springs for KM4OWA.”
One final comment: remember, that less is often more when handling formal traffic. Try to follow the traffic listing procedures above to keep the traffic listing as efficient as possible.
Until next month, keep the traffic moving!
73 Dave W2PAX SWFTN Manager
David KN4JAG SWFTN Asst. Manager
Southwest Florida Traffic Net Update
SAR
JAN
W2PAX 268 KM4OWA 103 KR4ST 96 K4FHR 79 W4CMH 61 W2ARP 52 KN4JAG 17 W9GPI 11 KR4PI 9 KE4CB 8 KC1FLU 8 N5KFR 7 KK4RXW 5 NK4AA 4PSHR
JAN
W4CMH 120 W2PAX 105 K4FHR 74MONTHLY NET
STATISTICS
JAN
QNI 466 QTC 210 QND 1117 SESSIONS 26* SAR = Station Activity Report
* PSHR = Public Service Honor Roll ( In points )
* QNI = Total Check-Ins QTC = Total Messages
Buckingham Special Event Upcoming
One of FMARC’s premier special events is just around the corner. The Buckingham Army Air Field Special Event is held each year to honor the men and women who served at the facility during World War II. Dating from the days before there was a US Air Force, Buckingham served as a training center for aerial gunners who protected Allied bombers. It was also the spot where aerial gunner instructors received their training. The base was closed in 1945 following the end of the war. During its operation, the base graduated 48,000 aerial gunners.
Today, the facility is used primarily by the Lee County Mosquito Control District as a base of operations for its fleet of helicopters and planes.
Each year, FMARC holds a multi-day event to commemorate those who passed through the gates in World War II. This year, the chair for the event is Brian Darley KM4YHZ who took over for Stella Gurka WB2FAU who had run the event for many years. Brian noted the special event will run on March 23rd, 24thand 25thfrom 9:00 AM until 4:00 PM each day. Set up will occur on March 22ndand
tear down will occur on the final day of operation.
Brian welcomed everyone to come out to Buckingham and take part. “This is a fun event for everyone.” Brian noted. He added “It is held indoors and the folks who run the airfield are great hosts.”
If you would like to run one of the stations or just observe, let Brian know. “We can always use help”. The facility is located at 15191 Homestead Rd, Lehigh Acres, FL 33971.
Buckingham Army Airfield circa 1944
Winter Field Day
"Acceptable" temperatures is what Winter Field Day Chair Jon Scharbrough AA4JS said about the weather for this year's 24-hour event held at the end of January. Jon reminded everyone that last year was colder so this year, the conditions were deemed better.
This year, WFD was held again at the North Ft Myers Recreation area facility that is used for the June field day. Jon noted, "It's a great spot since we have shelter, facilities and lots of room to spread out people and antennas". He was very pleased with the participation. Logs for the event have been submitted to the WFD organizing group and final results will be posted later this year. Jon added, "I think everyone had fun".
Winter Field Day Statistics
Jon Scharbrough AA4JS reported the following preliminary statistics for the FMARC effort at Winter Field Day. These results will be added to those submitted by hams who participated from home and submitted their logs crediting FMARC It is similar to the summer event in 2020. Contact Made:
CW
150
Phone
220
Digital
112
Total
482
Band/Mode multipliers:
13
Bonus points:
Alternate Power 1500
Outdoor 1500
Remote 1500
Total submitted score of 23855 !
Nice Job!
Field Day Question
Here is a question for FMARC Field Day (winter and summer) Veterans. Why is this photo significant? No fair asking Captain Mick...
Little Guns and Big Guns
Most of us would love to sit at the control point of the one of the “Big Gun” contest stations. You know….the ones with full legal power, integrated auto tuners, a massive Yagi at 400 feet, a rig that nulls out all the QRM and QRN and a really, really comfortable chair. We want to be "that" station that can power through anything and have our signal recognized and acknowledged. It’s a nice dream, but not always real practical.
Others like the “thrill of the chase”. Power and equipment are secondary. They rely on learned skills, patience and a willingness by the station they are contacting to work with them. Oh, and both want really comfortable chairs.
During the recent Winter Field Day exercise, one of those “little guns” had a successful exchange with W4LX, the FMARC call for our entry into the event.
At the close of the event, the trustee for W4LX, Tom Muye AC4TM, received an email from Bob Harris WB7BWZ of Billings, Montana. In the note, Bob noted he had picked up a “booming” CQ call from W4LX around 5:00 PM Saturday. Bob responded with his call. In his note Bob says he was running just 5 watts outside into an end fed wire. Bob
was a “little gun”.
His note went on, “ I know I don't put out much of a signal. He was strong here in MT and I answered his CQ, but about that time another WB6 station decided to call CQ right on frequency. I have pretty good ability to separate tones, but I think the WB6 could have hit his zero beat button, he was so close to your frequency.
Anyway, I know it took a lot to complete the QSO. Every time I thought I was going to get my confirmation, here comes the WB6 calling CQ”.
Bob sent the note to thank the W4LX operator who hung in
with him during the QRM. He was most appreciative of getting the QSO acknowledged.
The W4LX operator was Bob Lewis N8GU who was working CW. When told of the kind note from Montana, he recalled the contact.
That is what it’s all about. Thanks to Bob and Bob for the great example of "it's not always the power"...it is really “working the contact”.
Good Friend Moves On
January saw the departure of a great friend of amateur radio and of FMARC in Lee County. Lee Mayfield, who was the county Director of Public Safety and the Director for Lee County Emergency Management announced that he was leaving the area.
FMARC’s Steve Smith W9GPI the ARRL Emergency Coordinator for Lee County, had perhaps the closest contact with Lee. Steve, in announcing the Director’s departure said, “He was a true friend of amateur radio”. Steve noted that it was often with Lee’s help that amateur radio and ARES were included in the county’s emergency planning and preparation. “He really understood what a service amateur radio could be in the time of an emergency.” Steve said. He added that consideration for ARES was always part of Lee’s planning.
A native Floridian, Lee was born and raised in the Miami area. He earned an undergrad degree from the University of Florida and a Masters from Florida State University. His career has included time with the state of Florida where he was the state regional liaison for 10 counties in southwest Florida. He also worked in Collier County as Plans Chief following stints as Emergency Management Coordinator and EOC Operations Chief.
Steve had very high praise for Lee as he reminisced about his decision to leave. At his suggestion and by a unanimous vote, Lee was made an honorary member of FMARC. Steve concluded by saying “Thanks for all your support, and I along with all the hams and residents of the county, wish you well”.
New Club QSL Cards
The QSL cards sent to folks who contact FMARC during various special events have a "new look". Club QSL Manager Robert Pantazes W2ARP unveiled the new cards during the club meeting in January.
Bob said his idea was to make a card that could be used for any purpose. "It was the idea that we could use cards for our regularly scheduled special events as well as for events that are more ad hoc," he said. Designed around the "FMARC Alligator" the cards can be used for specific contacts like Field Day, Winter Field Day, Buckingham Airfield, Islands on the Air and Parks on the Air. In addition, when used at other special events like open houses or community service, the cards can be sent to those who
request formal confirmation of their contacts. Bob will have a supply of the cards and make them available to those who need them. If you need cards or information, contact Bob at
Front of the Card - The club call sign and checkboxes for various events
Back of the Card - The specifics of the contact that was recorded by the club.
New Members of FMARC
Bob Mooney KO4KYV - Ft Myers Arthur Woods K6AFW - Oak Grove MNDo
You Need to Run a Tuner?
By Bob Pantazes W2ARP
I have a tube RF power amplifier and saw that tuning into an HF beam antenna with an SWR of 1.5 to 1 worked well. I noticed for my multi band HF wire antenna, that the best a SWR I could get was 2.5 to 1 on the 20 meter band. On other bands, the SWR was worse. One was 5 to 1 on 12 meters. My amplifier would tune the worst SWR, but the grid current ran high which would sometimes trip the amplifier's over current protection circuit.
To research the problem, I decided to borrower the Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club’s loaner high power tuner This was an effort to bring down the grid current. When I installed the loaner tuner and then tuned for the lowest SWR of 1 to 1, the grid current drop from 125mA to 25mA for the same 450 watts output. A drop like this will dramatically improve the amp tube life. The grid current was also lower with the borrowed tuner running into my HF beam. The measurement there was at 1.5 to 1 SWR, dropped from 50mA to 25mA..
I returned the loaner to the club and then purchased a high power tuner for $300 I also replaced my amp tubes at cost $300 for a matched set of three. Normally, I got about 3 years life on the tubes when they ran into the high SWR antenna. Now I hope to get at least twice that time. That will help me recover the cost of the tuner.
FMARC member Ian Hickin KO4EFS has developed a "Quick Reference Guide". Ian said the document was designed to answer all the questions that new Hams tend to have. "When I first got licensed, I had a lots and lots of
questions." Ian said. He added, "I found many of the answers by just listening and others answers were scattered around the internet." He found most the information, but thought it would be helpful to keep it all in one spot. He accumulated much of the information and created the "Quick
Reference Guide" which is available to everyone on the FMARC website.
The guide has four pages of detailed information, that is useful for new and "more seasoned" hams as well. "I wanted to keep it short and concise." Ian said. "There was more I could have added but I stuck with the basics".
You can find the material athttps://fmarc.net/
quick-reference-guide/. Thanks Ian on behalf of
all hams!
Ham Expo 2021
The newest version of a virtual hamfest will take place on March 13th and 14th. The QSO Today Virtual Ham Expo 2021 has changed a bit from last year's event, but again promises to offer great presentations and access to many vendors.
In order to take part in the expo, you must register. This time, there is a $10 early bird fee if you signup before the event. It will be $12.50 to register later. The fee will permit you to join the sessions as they happen and you will have access to the presentations for 30 days after the actual event.
In addition this year, a new feature will be kit building. You can purchase kits ahead of time and have them when the session is held to talk about putting them together.
More information about the expo can be found here: https://www.qsotodayhamexpo.com.
Keep Watching The FMARC Website
The FMARC website is undergoing constant updates. Many new features have been introduced recently including:
A full detailed membership roster located behind the log in wall A more usable and dynamic storage for the Modulator back to 2015 Details on upcoming Special Events
A list of some items available in the Swap Shop
ARRL to Extend Field Day Rule Waivers from
2020, Add Class D and E Power Limit
02/10/2021
The COVID-19 pandemic-modifiedARRL Field Dayrules from 2020 will continue this June
with the addition of a power limit imposed on Class D (Home Stations) and Class E (Home Stations-Emergency Power) participants. The news from the ARRL Board’s Programs and Services Committee comes as many clubs and groups are starting preparations for Field Day in earnest. Field Day 2021 will take place June 26 – 27.
“This early decision should alleviate any hesitancy that radio clubs and individual Field Day participants may have with their planning for the event,” said ARRL Contest Program Manager Paul Bourque, N1SFE.
For Field Day 2021:
• Class D stations may work all other Field Day stations, including other Class D
stations, for points. This year, however, Class D and Class E stations will be limited to 150 W PEP output.
• An aggregate club score will be published — just as it was done last year. The
aggregate score will be a sum of all individual entries that attributed their score to that of a specific club.
ARRL Field Day is one of the biggest events on the amateur radio calendar. Last summer, a record 10,213 entries were received.
“With the greater flexibility afforded by the rules waivers, individuals and groups will still be able to participate in Field Day, while still staying within any public health recommendations and/or requirements,” Bourque said.
The preferred method of submitting entries after Field Day is via the web applet. The ARRL Field Day rules include instructions on how to submit entries, which must be submitted or postmarked by Tuesday, July 27, 2021.
TheARRL Field Dayweb page contains for complete rules and entry forms, as well as any
updated information as it becomes available. Join the ARRL Field DayFacebook page.
Overstock Sale!
The club has located a box of new Kelly Green vests and is selling them on a "first come first served" basis. The vests are blank and will need the embroidery done. That can be arranged separately through Rich Schnieders KR4PI.
As of this writing, the following sizes are available at $20.00 each: Small, Medium, Large, 3XL and 4XL. If you have an interest in purchasing on of these vests contact President Steve Clayton at [email protected].
Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club, Inc.
Minutes of the January 21, 2021 General Meeting
Please note: Due to COVID-19, this meeting was a hybrid session (both in
person and virtual using Zoom).
President Steve Clayton called the meeting to order at 1900 hours with the Pledge of allegiance. Rich Schneiders KR4PI gave the invocation. Board members present: President Steve Clayton K4SJC, Vice President Jeff Kennedy NK4AA, Secretary Artis Kitchens N3XGL, Treasurer Leo Windler KN4UKX, Past President Robert Griffin KJ4WPV, Director Dave Sheppard W2PAX, Director Rich Schnieders KR4PI.
Officers Reports
President: Steve Clayton recognized a new ham
in the meeting Cliff KC3PBJ. He asked for any announcements from members and none were given.
Steve recognized Brian Bantz KE0MCV as a silent key.
A motion was made by Robert Ficarelli
KM4OWA and seconded by Tom Muye AC4TM to approve the minutes as published in the
Modulator. The motion carried.
President Clayton said his report would be brief because most of the committee chairs would give their own reports. He noted the club was in the middle of cleaning up our membership roster. He reminded those who have not paid their dues by the end of February that they would be dropped from the roster and moved to an "inactive status". The active members will be the only ones that will be available to get into the members’ side of the website. He again asked that all members pay
Vice President: Jeff Kennedy noted that at the
last board meeting there was a discussion about having a privacy policy for the club website. He noted that he had been working on one and anticipated have it ready for the next board meeting. Jeff also said he wanted to mention the new ARRL magazine "On the Air". A digital version is available for members. He said the publication has good information for veteran and new hams.
President Clayton noted that he was soliciting any and all comments from members regarding the club. He said people could contact him directly. He added he wanted to make certain that ideas or comments brought up do not fall through the cracks. Steve said the project Jeff was working on is the result of a member comment.
Secretary: Artis Kitchens offered thanks to
those who bring information to him for the club minutes. He said he appreciated all the input he has had.
President Clayton added that if anyone needed to get information to anybody on the board of directors or committee chairs they should use the club emails listed on the website.
Treasurer: report - Leo Windler presented his
report for those assembled. A complete report is included in the official minutes.
A motion was made by Dave Sheppard W2PAX and seconded by Harry Frietchen K8HF to approve the report. The motion carried.
Past President: Robert Griffin said he had not
formal report for the evening. He said he had been working on his Ham Shack and getting ready for Winter Field Day.
President Clayton recognized Bob Pantazes W2ARP who had another commitment that evening. Bob gave his reports for Membership/ Repeaters/QSL.
Bob reported currently the club has 131 members of which 6 are honorary. He repeated that anyone who had not paid their 2021 dues could do so through the website via PayPal or by mailing a check to him at the club's PO Box. Additionally memberships can be paid by dropping off the payment to Joe Ryan N3NAI at the Swap Shop. He requested that if you mail or hand deliver payments that you fill out the form so that the club has the most current contact information. On Repeaters Bob reported the owner of the amp from the 220 machine says that he would like his amp back. He is investigating to see if the equipment was donated or loaned.
Bob reported he has the new club QSL cards from the printer and he was happy with the outcome. He said they could be used for all club functions.
Director: Dave Sheppard said he has returned to
the club bylaws update. He noted with COVID and other factors, the issue was postponed last year. He is hoping to get board consensus on the clean up and then bring it to the membership for a vote.
President Clayton thanked Dave for his
continuing work on the issue. He also noted that FMARC is a 501(c)3 organization meaning that anyone who donates to the club can receive a receipt that might be useful for tax purposes. Robert Ficarelli KM4OWA also made a note that if you purchase anything from Amazon you can purchase through Amazon Smile and designate
see from the rest of the board on trying to help get the bylaws accomplished. Other than that I guess I could say it's a busy week, busy month, it's good to see all of us here together.
Committee Reports
Special Events/Speakers/ARISS/220: President
Clayton asked Chair Brian Darley KM4YHZ the status of the 220 repeater on the CenturyLink tower. Brian said he had been in correspondence with the company and that they had asked about floor and rack space requirements. Brian added there was a discrepancy in CenturyLink's records as to the load on the tower. He expected that could be cleaned up in a few days. President Clayton reminded those in attendance that the 220 as taken off line because of a conflict where it had been located. He is hopeful it will be placed on the downtown Ft. Myers tower which will give it a good footprint. He added that it would be up to the club if the 220 is located because the club would have to have member support to justify it. Brian noted that for speakers he had Bob Lewis N8GU lined up for the first in-person meeting to talk about POTA.
Brian said the Lee County ARISS Schools contact, Mrs Black, was no longer in the school system. She has taken a job with the ISS National Labs and will be working with NASA. Brian said she would speak with her boss because they work directly with ARISS and see about designating FMARC as a traveling club to take ARISS equipment to different schools in the state. He will then work with a local club to try to help that school in different areas to get on the air with ARISS.
to come out and help us set up, to operate, and to cook. Anyone interested should contact Brian at [email protected]. He said put in the subject line "Buckingham Event".
SWFTN - Dave Sheppard reminded folks that in
December it was mentioned that there would be a different format at the start of the net. That is now in place. Dave said if you are ashort timer or mobile and need to just check in, you can do so before the net starts passing messages. He said the change was needed because some days the net was so busy that checkins would be delayed for a long period of time. With regards to January levels, he said messages have taken a nose dive. He is hoping for a rebound that will get the net to the 200 mark again.
Dave said a goal of his in 2021 is to try to get some more participation in traffic handlers. Like with any group, Dave said there is a core of a few people who handle most of the traffic. That amounts to about eight or 10 people. In addition to the local VHF net he is looking for people who can handle HF traffic. Right now there are just 3 people locally who can do it. He urged anyone who was interested to contact him at
Modulator: Don Domina KCØDE said he was
always looking for story ideas for the Modulator. He added the next edition will be closing on February 12.
Property: Joe Ryan N3NAI deferred to
President Clayton. Steve said Joes needs someone to help him regularly with the Swap Shop. He needs a back up who can move some of the heavier items and can generally lend a hand. Anyone intersted should contact Joe or Steve.
Joe said by the amount turned into the Treasury, the Swap Shop is doing fairly well. He added that he has some nice equipment in the shop and urged members to take a look. Joe mentioned that he has listed just some of the items in the Modulator. He stressed that he has a number of
power supplies. Joe made arrangements for paper club applications for people who stopped by and wished to join.
Leo Senus KC1FLU said that he needed to get with Joe to get the food that needed to be prepped before Winter Field Day.
PIO: John Wells W4CMH reported that things
were quiet mostly due to COVID.
Winter Field Day: Jon Scharbrough AA4JS
noted the event was scheduled for the North Fort Myers community park. He said there would be plenty of room for the antennas so he was going to try to get as much separation as possible. Jon added Leo Senus would be cooking and feeding those in attendance.
Licensing: Larry Stiles WF4LS said the group
held a session on January Jan 14th. Seven were tested with one Extra and four Technician class licenses resulting.
Because of the high demand and limited space due to COVID, Larry said a January 28th session has been added along with a February 25th session. The normal February 11th session will also be held. As of the meeting, all spots were taken up until the March 11th session.
ARES/Education: Steve Smith W9GPI reported
that Lee Mayfield, Lee County Emergency Management Director had resigned and will be leaving the area. It was not clear who would replace him. Steve said his challenge is to make certain that we keep the extraordinary
relationship that we have with Lee County Emergency Management at this time. Steve said Lee said that he felt that whoever took over would continue that relationship but that will not be known until the successor is in place.
Steve mentioned that he is working ona a
Winlink/Raspberry Pi application and would keep the group advised.
He noted that new business cards were available and he would have them for the officers at the Lunch Bunch meeting.
The discussion turned back to the departure of Lee Mayfield. Joe Ryan asked Lee was the top person or was there somebody above him. Steve said that Lee was the director and reported to the board. Steve Clayton noted the special
relationship we have with the county. He thanked Steve Smith for that. Steve also invited anyone who was interested to consider joining the ARES group. Anyone interested should talk with Steve Smith at [email protected].
Robert Ficarelli KM4OWA suggested the club thank and recognize Mayfield with an honorary membership. h
Robert Ficarelli moved and Steve Smith W9GPI seconded a motion to make Lee Mayfield an honorary member of FMARC. The motion carried.
Trailer/ID Cards/Zoom/DeputyWebmaster:
Tom Muye AC4TM.
Tom advised the trailer will be taken to Winter Field Day on Saturday. With respect to ID cards he said he will be changing the format of those so that they have a barcode on them. In the area of Zoom, Tom noted it's still working well for us and being taken care of by four hosts.
The big news Tom has was on the FMARC website. He said those viewing it will see several changes. Most everything is up to date and we have added a member section, accessible only by members. Also there is a new form for renewing membership so that members don't have to go through the whole form just to renew
membership.
When you log into the members page it will take you to a page that shows the loaner equipment that's available. It will also give you a page that
things available later on.
Then there is an ARRL live link. On that link you can order pins, patches or stickers.
President Clayton said the changes represent a movement from a nice website to a great website. It is now a website that is not only for non
members, but it also has a place for members. President Clayton noted that when members wish to borrow items, there is a form that needs to be completed. It permits the club to keep track of its assets.
He said the club is considering offering multi year memberships. It is an issue that will be discussed.
Finally he said there is an investigation of a club calling frequency to make communication easier across the county.
He again mentioned FGCU and their club that lists FMARC under the CERT program. He urged we renew our friendship with that organization.
Finally he urged members to take a look at the Ham Cheat Sheet on the best put together by Ian Hickin KO4EFS.
Old Business There was none. New Business There was none.
Brian Darley KM4YHZ noted he said that he needed to get with Stella Gurka WB2FAU concerning the QSL cards and some of the business concerning Buckingham field day.
Adjournment
A motion was made by Don Domina KCØDE and seconded by Dave Sheppard W2PAX to adjourn. The motion carried.
Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club, Inc.
Minutes of the February 9, 2021 Board of Directors Meeting
Please note: Due to COVID-19, this meeting was a hybrid session (both in
person and virtual using Zoom.
President Steve Clayton called the meeting to order at 1900 hours with the Pledge of allegiance. Rich Schneiders KR4PI gave the invocation. Board members present: President Steve Clayton K4SJC, Vice President Jeff Kennedy NK4AA, Secretary Artis Kitchens N3XGL, Treasurer Leo Windler KN4UKX, Past President Robert Griffin KJ4WPV, Director Dave Sheppard W2PAX, Director Rich Schnieders KR4PI.
Officers Reports
President: Steve Clayton recognized Kimberly
as a visitor during the session. She does not yet have a call sign.
There was no one on the care list, however the President did recognize Bill Wade as an SK. A motion was made by Rich Schnieders KR4PI and seconded by Artis Kitchens N3XGL to approve the minutes of the previous board
meeting as printed in the Modulator. The motion carried without disent.
President Clayton said he felt there was a need for a Safety Director with for the club as it continues to grow. He added that the designated safety officer would be responsible for the club AED and first aid kit. They would also be responsible for maintaining a safe environment. This will be someone to maintain the AED and someone also to maintain a safe environment at club events like
field day. He noted the Safety Director did not need to attend every event. Those duties could be passed to Deputy Safety Directors. President Clayton requested volunteers for the position of Safety Director. Robert Ficarelli KM4OWA came forward to take the position of Safety Director. For Deputy Safety Directors, Steve said they should have CPR, AED, First Aid and common sense as prerequisites. His request for volunteers for the deputy position produced three individuals. They were Steve Smith W9GPI, Robert Griffin KJ4WPV and Jeff Kennedy NK4AA.
President Clayton asked that the Safety Team be mentioned in the Modulator and posted on teh club website.
Vice President: Jeff Kennedy said he had
comments on a Privacy Statement for the club. He said he would hold those comments until a general discussion later in the meeting.
Jeff noted there would be a hamfest in Charlotte County on March 6 in Punta Gorda.
Secretary: Artis Kitchens said he was happy to
see the attendance at the meeting. He also noted he agreed with the President on the creation of a Safety Director position. He was also happy that members volunteered for the spots.
Treasurer: Leo Windler presented the report to
the meeting. A full treasurer's report is included within these minutes. Total in all accounts is $20,363.89.
Following the report Leo Senus KC1FLU said he was still holding $30 to $35 in outstanding receipts for food from winter field day.
accept the Treasurer's report. The motion carried.
Past President: Robert Griffin noted it was good
to see all those in attendance. He said his most of his recent time has been spent searching for COVID vaccines and working stations on FT8.
Director: Dave Sheppard said he had been
working on the bylaws. He will speak about them later in the meeting.
With regards to SWFTN, Dave said there was a need to get the January results posted on the FMARC website.
Director: Rich Schnieders said he wanted to
thank everyone for attending. He noted there were a total of 34 people (29 on Zoom and 5 in-person). He added the club can always use more volunteers for spots because there was lots to do.
Committee Reports
Membership/Technical/QSL Cards: Bob
Pantazes W2ARP noted the club has 141 members in good standing. He added he picked up a couple of payments through PayPal and at the Swap Shop. He urged all those who have not yet paid to submit their dues.
Bob noted he had some expenditures for QSL cards and that he was planning on spending some of the funds that were approved at the last Board meeting.
He recommended the club donate funds to N3FJP, the author of the software the club uses for logging at special events and to the Winter Field Day committee.
A motion was made by Dave Sheppard and seconded by Leo Windler to donate $50 to the
to be voted on for approval.
Motion to accept members presented was made by Jeff Kennedy NK4AA and seconded by Dave Sheppard W2PAX. The motion carried.
Bob then talked about the 220 repeater project. He said a review of minutes led him to believe the old amplifier was owned by Dale Pavlicek WT4T. The unit will be returned to him. Bob said the club has some monies that have been donated for a new repeater and other money that was donated but not designated. He estimated the total cost would be about $2000 in new equipment. He requested permission to purchase the new amplifier and repeater using the donated funds for use on the tower in downtown Ft Myers.
President Clayton noted the club had received a preliminary lease agreement for the downtown repeater location. It is a 10-year lease with four, five year renewals available. The lease cost is $0 per year. He said he had submitted the lease agreement to an attorney that is a member of the club for his review. Other board members are also reviewing the document.
Steve noted the club does not need the equipment if they do not have access to the tower, but he felt all that was needed are the signatures. He added the expenditure for the tower climb has already been pre-approved at a previous meeting but approval was needed to have for the expenditures for the equipment at a General Meeting.
A motion was made by Dave Sheppard W2PAX and seconded by Rich Schnieders KR4PI to send approval of expenditure to the general meeting. Discussion ensued.
There was a question of the impact on the club's insurance by adding the repeater and antenna. The
power to assist in operation inside of buildings in addition to giving it a larger footprint. All the equipment will be set up on shipment so it will be paired and the PL Tone will be activated.
The earlier motion to approve move the approval of the purchase to the general meeting was approved.
Steve thanked Bob Pantazes and everyone for all the hard work that he has done on this project. Joe Ryan N3NAI had a question regarding the call on the 440 repeater. Bob noted the repeater is in use and was on the air working fine.
Bob closed by saying he would pull the old 220 repeater and amp and return the amp to the owner with him signing a receipt for the item.
Speakers/Programs/ARISS: Brian Darley
KM4YHZ said he had nothing to report on speakers.
Brian said the next special event was Buckingham set for March 23, 24 and 25 with set up on the 22nd and tear down on the 25th. He said he needed to know who was planning to help and attend for planning purposes. He also said he needed to identify a cook.
With regards to ARISS. Brian said the Digipeater and APRS are still offline. The is ISS currently using a backup radio and they are doing telebridge contacts. Brian noted Miss Black is no longer with Lee County School Systems. She has taken a job with the ISS National Labs. He is working with her for a grant for schools or clubs like 4H, Boys & Girls Clubs, and Boy Scouts. Brian said he has proposed on behalf of FMARC in the event that any other clubs don't have the equipment and would like to participate in ARISS.
In response to a question Brian said he would be in touch with Brittany. Steve Clayton was asking Brian if Brittany McDonnell KJ4OYP prior to the Buckingham event.
Modulator: Don Domina KCØDE advised those
in attendance that the closing date of the Modulator
was Friday March 12.
Summer Field Day/Property/Swap Shop: - Joe
Ryan N3NAI noted the club AED had been to both Field Days. He requested a copy of the repeaters and equipment from Bob Pantazes for insurance purposes.
Talking about Summer Field Day Joe said ARRL has released some information regarding
merchandise. He will distribute rules and
regulations when they are received. He noted John Wells W4CMH had served as our safety officer for a couple years in the past for a couple of our different functions.
With the Swap Shop, Joe noted it was upcoming. He said there was a lot of stuff that had come in but he had not been able to inventory it. Joe said he had RG 8X at $0.35 per foot and connectors at $2.50 each. He is holding the connectors for those who buy coax since the supply is limited. In response to a question, Joe said he would inventory the amount of hardline that he had. President Clayton said he had someone lined up to assist Joe in the clean up and Swap Shop operations.
Winter Field Day: John Scharbrough AA4JS
noted there were 150 CW contacts, 220 phone contacts and 112 digital contacts for a total of 482 contacts. That is 6 more than last year. Jon said with the added bonus points for having 100 watts or less, being outside, operating remote power and in a remote locations. a total of 23,844 points were awarded. This was about 3,200 points more than last year. Jon said this was a very successful year. The president congratulated Jon who said it takes a team to be successful.
License Testing: Larry Stiles WF4LS noted he
had a full session scheduled for the next Thursday. He added there was an overflow session scheduled for February 25. A regular session is set for March 11. He added he had not determined if there would be an overflow session in March.
that two manuals were delivered to individuals who were studying on their own. He has not had any requests for assistance.
From the emergency preparedness point of view, Steve said had an upcoming meeting with Sandra Tapfumaneyi, who was the former operations chief of Emergency Management. She is now the interim emergency manager. He said he did not know how long she would hold the job but he hoped it would be a long time. He also said he was trying to get testing session back in the EOC. He also noted that he was working on a Raspberry Pi project for Winlink. A question was asked if the interim EM was invited to ARES and FMARC meeting on Zoom, and Steve said he would look into it. Steve mention a newer Winlink feature that he would have more information about soon.
President Clayton mentioned that Modulator information was now available as a preview and not requiring downloads to view. This is limited to the latest editions. Back issues through 2015 are available for download.
Trailer/ID Cards/Website: Tom Muye AC4TM
said the trailer was used at winter field day and it worked well. The tires did have to be pumped up to get it there. He said they used the generator and it ran all of the equipment necessary for the event. The newly designed membership cards now have barcodes on the front of the card. This permits reading by the club scanner.
In regards to the website Tom noted the archives are up-to-date with the most recent modulators. He said he is working on getting updates other things like pictures.
President Clayton asked if the membership roster is up to date on the website and he was told it was. Tom also made note that the member can go into
a question raised by Ian Hickin KO4EFS. The President said the club would be looking at some kind of a scholarship program and the possibility of longer term or life memberships. A request has been made to link some repeaters. Steve Smith W9GPI is looking at the issue and will advise later. The president also said he was looking at making some low cost radios available to new hams. Director Jeff Kennedy discussed the privacy policy initiative. At the last board meeting and the
general meeting it was discussed that the website needed a privacy policy. Jeff had been looking into it and collecting information. Jeff noted he spoke with Tom Muye AC4TM and found our WordPress software has a privacy policy within it and it has already put up. It also has a Terms of Service section there as well. There's a couple of different ways to go about this. There is actually nothing wrong with the policy that we have up there now. He suggested "images" be included in the policy. Jeff suggest that the membership roster should be behind the login. As of right now it is accessible to anybody that looks at the website. He expressed concern about misuse.
There was discussion about information collected at the VE sessions. It is disclaimed on the VE form.
Following discussion it was decided to add "image" to the wording and implement it.
Steve Smith W9GPI noted that at Testing sessions applicants are photographed. They are told what they are for and given the option of declining.. Leo Windler said a downside of putting the roster behind the pay wall was people would not be able to see other hams near them. Jeff Kennedy noted the ARRL website provided a method of
vests available on closeout. Those interested should contact him directly or Rich Schnieders. The next topic discussed was by-laws. Dave Sheppard W2PAX has made a proposal to the board and has captured the comments. He said there is only one section that really needs
clarification. Dave said the question centers on the free membership for a newly licensed ham.
Questions centered on the definition of "newly licensed". There was considerable discussion back and forth. There were questions of license levels, time since licensed, method and place of obtaining the license. There was discussion on the example of a ham who permitted his license to expired 20 years ago and retakes the Technician license exam and is re-licensed. Laurel VE Team Lead Larry Stiles WF4LS said in the past those with long lapsed licenses were treated a new licenses. Jon Scharbrough AA4JS said he believed the definition was created at a meeting a few years ago. That decision should be in the minutes. Dave said he would research it since it was important to have the existing condition identified before proposing any change. He will work on that research and send a new set of changes to the board.
Old Business None New Business
Leo Windler noted Daniel Hays KD0FZF donated a computer server to the club under one condition. He said it could not be stored at his house. Leo said it is currently with Tim Bennett KJ4MUY.
Adjournment:
A motion to adjourn was made by Rich Schnieders KR4PI and seconded by Dave Sheppard W2PX. The motion passed.
The meeting adjourned at 20:43.
Respectfully Submitted Artis Kitchens - FMARC Secretary
FORT MYERS AMATEUR RADIO CLUB
MISSION STATEMENT
The Mission of the Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club, Inc. (FMARC) is to train and assist Ham Radio Operators to carry on the tradition of amateur radio; and, members of FMARC are dedicated to providing education to the general public about the history, operation, functions and benefits of the Amateur Radio Service.
PURPOSE
The Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club, Inc. was formed to provide members the pleasure and benefits of the association of persons commonly interested in Amateur Radio.
OBJECTIVES
• To facilitate the exchange of information • To promote knowledge of electronics and amateur radio
• To promote good radio operating practices • To further the art of Amateur Radio
• To sponsor and promote activities relating to amateur radio
• To render public service during emergencies. • To participate in appropriate community activities. President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Director Director Past President Steve Clayton Jeff Kennedy Artis Kitchens Leo Windler Rich Schnieders Dave Sheppard Robert Griffin K4SJC NK4AA N3XGL KN4UKX KR4PI W2PAX KJ4WPV 2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS ARES® Club Chaplain Education Elmer Field Day Hamfest Co Chair Hamfest Co Chair Membership Modulator Editor Monday Net Mgr PIO Programs Projects Property Control Safety Director QSL Manager Social Special Events Swap Shop Technical Trailer Stephen Smith Rich Schnieders Stephen Smith Robert LaRue Joseph Ryan Margret Treiber Marie Gonzalez Bob Pantazes Don Domina Stella Gurka John Wells Brian Darley Tom Muye Joseph Ryan Robert Ficarelli Bob Pantazes Brittany McDonnell Brian Darley Charles Istenes Robert Pantazes Tom Muye W9GPI KR4PI W9GPI KK4SER N3NAI KN4JNJ KN4JAE W2ARP KCØDE WB2FAU W4CMH KM4YHZ AC4TM N3NAI KM4OWA W2ARP KJ4OYP KM4YHZ KI4GED W2ARP AC4TM COMMITTEE CHAIRS
MODULATOR
The Modulator is published by the Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club, Inc. to inform our members of Club Events and educational or training opportunities.
Members of FMARC are invited to submit articles for the Modulator. The Modulator is the official voice of
FMARC. Submissions of articles or advertisements for the Modulator must be made not later than the 15th of each month.
NOW AT THE SWAP SHOP
Questions? Contact Joe: [email protected]
Now At the Swap Shop
Power Supplies from 3A to 23A and many in between Coax RG 58 $0.20 per foot
RG 8 $0.30 per foot - almost gone RG 8X $0.35 per foot - connectors $2.50 ea Some RG 6, and RG 59 at various prices and lengths.
Non FMARC members add $0.05 per foot Various TV and Audio items
VX5 HT $65 and VX7 HT $75 both are triband Kenwood Dual Band HT $65
Large 10 to 11 meter vertical base antenna All kinds of parts,supplies and nuts and bolts
screws etc. - Very Reasonable
Various CBs, Handhelds and Mobiles - $5 to $15 Fairly New Rotor and Controller - $200
Folded Dipole 440 commercial heavy duty Antennas $100 section can be configured into 16 Element or 8 Element
Some 4.5 ft 450 commercial antennas $35.00 AND MANY PARTS ALL OVER STOP AND BROWSE THE SHACK
WDØHAD Equipment Donation (all “used”)
Yaesu FL-2100B Linear Amplifier 1200 watt, grounded grid class B, linear amplifier. $500
3.5-4, 7-7.5, 14-14.5, 21-21.5 and 28-30 MHz. Power is 1200 watts PEP SSB, 800 watts CW (50% duty
cycle) and 600 watts on AM/RTTY
Yaesu SP8 Speaker for above. With Original Box and Manual $150
ICOM IC-211 with Microphone 120 With Box and Manual $120
Two Meter. 10 Watts. FM; SSB; CW. Built-in AC Power Supply
Yaesu FT-2800 with Microphone (Good Condition) Two Meter FM. 137-174 MHz. 65 Watts. $150 Yaesu FT-2800 with Microphone (Well-used Condition)
Two Meter FM. 137-174 MHz. 65 Watts. $75 Yaesu FT-2200 $200
Yaesu FP-1030 Power Supply $200 Yaesu FC-20 Tuner $150 Heathkit HM2141 Power Meter 200 Heathkit SA2040 Antenna Tuner 400
The Fort Myers Amateur Radio Club, Inc. is a US 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
Membership consists of both Federal Communication Commission (FCC) and
Internationally-licensed amateur radio operators who volunteer themselves, their communications experience and equipment in support of emergency and
community services.
Our club meets once a month at the Lee County Emergency Operations Center, 2675 Ortiz Avenue, Fort Myers, FL 33905. We hold our General meeting on the last Tuesday of every month at
7:00 pm.
Friends, interested persons and Hams from all over meet for reports from committee chairpersons, announcements of present and future activity, old business
issues, any new business for the club, and a program after the meeting.
ICOM IC-SM2 Microphone $50
Ameritron ARB704 Bypass Switch (2 Radios tied to one Amplifier)
25Cobra 19XS CB Radio $25 Heathkit HD-1422 Noise Bridge ? HyGain 421B Power Meter 3-30 MHz ?
Bearcat 180 Scanner $40 Realistic Pro-7A Scanner $20 Uniden Ocean US (Scanner ?) ?
Protex Antenna Switch 375 ? HyGain H-IV/CO-45-11Antenna Controller ?
HyGain Rotor Ham 4 ?
From Phyllisan West KA4FZI who has moved into assisted living
Ten-Tec Jupiter w/ Power Supply checked out $500 Desktop SWR Meter - $25
Alinco 110 2M mobile - $30 Tested on local repeater during nets
Ten-Tec Amp untested - It needs a 100amp power supply or battery
VOLUNTEER EXAMINERS
Conduct Exams for new Amateur Radio Licenses and License Upgrades on the 2nd Thursday of the month. 6:30 pm at the Lee County EOC. More information is available on the Club’s Web Site: www.fmarc.net, under the “License & Education” tab.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
The 2nd Tuesday of each month at the Lee County Emergency Operations Center, 2675 Ortiz Avenue, Ft Myers FL at 7:00 PM. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss plans and issues for the club, as well as go over new business, old business and pending items. All members are encouraged to attend.
ARES
®The ARES Group meets at 7
pm on the third Tuesday of each month (except November & December) at the Lee County Emergency Operations Center, 2675 Ortiz Avenue, Ft Myers FL
For Info on ARES in Lee County, please contact:
Steve Smith (W9GPI) ARES Emergency Coordinator (920) 251-6249 or [email protected]
www.aresraces-leecountyfl.org
SWAP SHOP
A gathering of Hams and friends is held
on the 2nd & Last Saturdays at 11:00 AM at the clubhouse in Waterway Park located at 5820 Poetry Lane, North Fort Myers. Sell, swap and bargain for ham radio gear.
GENERAL MEETING & PROGRAM
The LAST Tuesday of each month. Members, friends, and interested persons meet at the Lee County Emergency Operations Center, 2675 Ortiz Avenue, Ft Myers FL, at 7:00 PM for reports from all committee chairpersons, announcements of present and future activity, old business issues, any new business for the club, and a program or presentation.
The Club’s Web Site is
http://www.FMARC.net
FMARC Facebook group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/fmarc/
FMARC Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/pg/FMARCFort-
Myers-Amateur-Radio-Club-Inc-1509463055951816
FMARC Hamfest Website
http://swflhamfest.info/
Loggerhead Net Catholic Charities
SOME LOCAL NETS
ARES®NET The DMR NetIMPORTANT NOTE: BECAUSE OF COVID-19 MOST IN PERSON MEETINGS ARE CANCELED. PLEASE REVIEW THE CALENDAR AND EMAILS TO SEE IF THE EVENT IS
